10.11.07: Columbus, OH

On October 10, 2007, we had an amazing day off in Gibson City, IL with the Schultz, our Lighting Director's family. It felt like the 4th of July: burgers on the grill, footballs flying through backyard air, chocolate cake, brownies, and more of all the goodness one could ever ask for on a day of relaxation. It was probably one of the best off-days this band and crew have had in a long time, not to mention that many of us left Gibson City with cleaner, healthier teeth.

The next morning, I got up minutes before our appointed time to head down to the local alternative station and play a quick acoustic show for a small audience of lovely fans. It was kind of like getting up to play at church, half-awake and sore from playing sports the day before. In spite of our dragging disposition, we manage to pull it together to deliver an acceptable performance.

At the station, I found out that Smashing Pumpkins were playing that night as well. They have been following us this whole tour. It's not the band you want to compete against in ticket sales. So, I thought the Mute Math show for the evening was probably going to be a bit slim. Well, I was wrong.

Last night was a huge surprise. Like I said, I didn't expect much of a crowd since pre-sales were very low and Smashing Pumpkins were playing down the road; however, we had a great turn out. And, not only was it a good size crowd, but everyone was getting into it, singing and moving to the music. What else could I ask for? Nada, nada limonada.





Photos by Thannyx

Your Ad Here

10.09.07: Chicago, HOB

This was the last show out of six in a row for Mute Math, which was a great relief for all the band and crew because we're simply getting tired; (we're well into the tour with only a month left to go). However, neither the band nor the crew played/worked like a bunch of apathetic slugs. Instead, the opposite was happening. I felt an energy that day, perhaps it was coming from the great city of Chicago and all the wonderful folk art hanging along the walls of the venue.

Wherever it was coming from, it translated that night into a beautiful exchange of energy and language between the band and audience. I was moved by all the diversity I witnessed in the faces before me, singing and dancing along to the beat of Darren's groove, Greg's anthem guitars, and Paul's soaring vocals.

I love to see music touch people. This is why I play. I love my job. I love music. Chicago makes me love it more.

Thanks, Chicago!





all photos by Zach Rosing

Your Ad Here

10.08.07: Milwaukee: The Rave

Some have commented that my blogs have been rather short lately, which is obviously true, and that is because I haven't had much to say. That is not a bad or negative thing. I've just been thinking of other things, like family.

Overall, this show went well despite the falling of instruments. The Rhodes fell over, Darren's drum kept falling over, etc. It was a technical challenge, but we had fun. I hope to come back and have twice as many people. It will make it sound and look better. Thanks to all that did take the time to come out.

Cambiando de tema, and a sad note at that, my tío Carlos passed away recently; hence, my preoccupation with family. He was my uncle that owned a record store in Nuevo Laredo, México. Because of him, I gained access to a lot of great albums that really shaped me as a musician, e.g., Tino Contreras' How to Play the Drums, B-52's, The Doors, etc. I still have all these wonderful things, and I can't help to not think about him when I play them. He was a wonderful, funny man that will truly be missed. I wish I could go to pay my respects in person, but unfortunately, I can't. So, I'll use this forum.

Tío, may you rest in peace. Thank you for giving so much to me. You will be missed.
Love,
Roy

Below are some old photos of my family, courtesy of my tía Doris:














My mom is in the middle with the fresh, black hat.

Your Ad Here